Consumers are being warned to be wary of dodgy door-to-door traders offering to do repair work in the wake of cyclones, storm surges and flooding affecting large parts of the State.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Shannon Fentiman said whether it was roof, property or home-contents damage, the aftermath of severe weather could be devastating to property owners, and some traders sought to capitalise on that stress.
“The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is warning consumers to avoid door-to-door traders offering on-the-spot cheap driveway repairs, tree removal services or housing and roof repairs,” Ms Fentiman said.
“Warning signals to look out for are ‘today only’ cheap deals, demands for up-front payment, or offers to drive you to the bank to get money to pay for the job,” she said.
“They will often pressure you to accept their offer and make it seem like they are doing you a favour.”
Ms Fentiman said when the Federal or State Government declared a disaster situation for an area, door-to-door traders could waive the usual 10 business day cooling-off period to start on emergency repairs.
“However, this is only in situations where there is a hazard or risk to people or property if the repairs do not go ahead, and even in this case, door-to-door traders are not permitted to accept payment on the spot,” she said.
“In all situations, whether a disaster situation has been declared or not, residents and businesses should be cautious if an itinerant trader arrives at their doors with no appropriate identification including a contractor’s licence (if applicable) and legitimate contact details.”
The Minister said door-to-door traders must generally not accept payment or begin work on a property within a 10 business day cooling-off period and consumers could cancel any agreement within that period without penalty.
“Door-to-door traders must leave your premises if directed and must not approach any residence displaying a Do Not Knock notice or sticker, which can be ordered free from the OFT website,” Ms Fentiman said.
